There are people we see in Utrecht on the street, in the station, on the corners. Some are playing music, others begging for change or selling the straatnieuws. We see them, over and over, and most of the time look down, look away, on a good day we may offer a smile or a coin.
To be seen, but not understood is a painful experience that everyone goes through- with friends, colleagues, partners, family, and perhaps most of all, with ourselves.
This project was inspired by experience learning to truly see myself again through painting. To share this feeling with my Utrecht community, I invite you to learn about and empathize with the people we see all over our city. I hope this experience will be a gateway to openess with not only the subjects of the portraits, but also those closest to you, and most importantly yourself.

The portraits were made by interviewing and photographing the subjects with their express consent for the project. A portion of the proceeds from the project will be used to directly benefit those depicted in the portraits, many of whom have become my valued friends.